West Kelowna

The District of West Kelowna wants to know what you think about snow removal in the municipality so far this winter - is it good or bad?

Photo: Trevor Rockliffe - Castanet

The snow removal contract in West Kelowna was awarded to AEL. They took over from Argo Road Maintenance Dec. 7 of last year.

"I think it's fair to say there have been some transition issues. We noted that would probably be the case given the takeover date of Dec. 7, in the middle of the snow season," stated DWK Chief Administrative Officer, Jason Johnson, at Tuesday's council meeting.

"It is important that, as residents come across complaints or concerns about snow removal, that they make those complaints directly to the District of West Kelowna. We are using this as a learning experience moving forward and how best to address residents' concerns and ensuring they get the service the contract calls for."

It has been admitted that there have been numerous complaints since AEL took over the contract last month, however, council agreed the company has been forced into a steep learning curve.

"I am sympathetic they took over the contract Dec. 7 and we went right into a significant snow season," says Councillor Rick de Jong.

"I recognize they haven't had a lot of breathers, but we do have some issues."

Mayor Doug Findlater acknowledged there have been some positive comments but added those people are in the minority.

"The contractor is learning the community. There are eight trucks on the road at any one time which I think is significant," says Findalter.

Photo: Trevor Rockliffe - Castanet

"You don't say this very often, but we encourage complaints so we can identify what the problems are."

Council is expected to be updated with how many issues have been brought up and how the contract has been going at its next meeting on Jan. 22.

A representative from AEL is expected to be in attendance.

In the meantime, people are asked to contact the municipality directly with comments, issues or complaints regarding snow removal in the municipality.

Comments can be sent to [email protected], 778-797-2225 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or 1-866-353-3136 after hours.

Findlater reminded residents that all emails are answered, however, phone calls will not always be returned.